In pictures: Diana and Kate - fashion royalty

Many of us remember Diana, Princess of Wales, not only as a devoted mother-of-two and charity ambassador but as the glamorous, aristocratic blonde whose beauty and sense of style helped propel British fashion onto the global stage.

Many of us remember Diana, Princess of Wales, not only as a devoted mother-of-two and charity ambassador but as the glamorous, aristocratic blonde whose beauty and sense of style helped propel British fashion onto the global stage.

Today, 1 July, would have been her 50th birthday, and while Diana never ruled over us as a monarch, she was without doubt a queen of fashion throughout her years in the limelight.

Who can forget her entrance as a Royal bride - the meringue-like ivory silk taffeta gown, with the majestic 25-foot train courtesy of Welsh desinger David Emanuel and his wife Elizabeth.

Her life was filled with gorgeous gowns, sparking tiaras and glamorous cocktail dresses wrapped around her enviable slim figure.

But with Diana's passing, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, and wife of Diana's son, Prince William, is the new torchbearer of British fashion - and is already reigning supreme in the global fashion stakes.

Her ivory and white satin wedding gown with lace applique bodice was designed by Sarah Burton from the iconic fashion house Alexander McQueen. And as Duchess of Cambrdige her outfits have drawn praise from fashion critics worldwide.

We've put together a few pictures of the first ladies of modern British royal fashion to remind you why they were and are fashion and style ambassadors for Britain. And if you think Diana has the fashion edge over Kate, let us know in our vote.

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